Ward McAllister played a pivotal role in shaping post-Civil War American high society, originating the concept of 'the 400' to define New York's elite. His memoir, Society As I Have Found It, published in 1890, provoked backlash as it revealed intimate details about his wealthy acquaintances. The Gilded Age television episode 'Ex-Communicated' showcases McAllister's failed attempts to reconcile with influential figures like Mrs. Astor and Bertha Russell after the scandal, emphasizing the peril of overestimating one's own importance among the high society circles he once navigated.
Ward McAllister, a lawyer from Georgia, married into wealth and influenced American high society by creating the concept of 'the 400' and advising the elite on emulating aristocracy.
His memoir, Society As I Have Found It, published in 1890, scandalized New York society as it disclosed enough details about his 'friends' to alienate them.
On The Gilded Age, McAllister's attempts to mend ties with Mrs. Astor and Bertha Russell after the publication of his tell-all memoir end in failure.
The episode titled 'Ex-Communicated' portrays McAllister’s unraveling in New York society, illustrating the dangers of overestimating one’s significance among the elite.
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